Good Mediterranean food is hard to come by. But without a doubt, I can say that Daffodil Mediterranean Cuisine and Catering has the best food in town. Daffodil is located at 5500 Old Cheney Road, next door to Eileen’s Cookies.

Upon entering the restaurant, it is impossible not to notice how laid back it feels. On one wall there lies a long row of tables, each sporting a different type of food.

From saffron rice to eggplant parmesan, you are always bound to find something to like. If buffets aren’t your thing, then they also offer a wide variety of authentic Mediterranean meals from shawarmas to gyros to even falafel, all handcrafted and served fresh to your table.

Now, I love Mediterranean food. I love it so much in fact, that I have been to nearly every Mediterranean food restaurant here in Lincoln, Nebraska. Daffodil, though, by far has some of the best gyros and falafel that I have ever had.

While some of the prices are more on the expensive side, the food is more than worth the price. Most of the meals average around $12, with some of the larger platters reaching upwards of $20. Smaller side items are also sold, from anywhere from $2.50 to $5.

If given the chance, Narges Montazer (the current owner of the restaurant and incredibly talented cook) will always help you find something new to try. Montazer personally dishes out samples of the buffet to customers, allowing them to try the food before making their decision.

The food is only part of the experience. The atmosphere at Daffodil is unlike any other. Montazer sits behind the buffet by the front door and strikes up a conversation with everyone who enters. Her warm and friendly demeanor creates the most kind and genuine customer service I have ever had.

The best part of Daffodil, though, is the large oil painting of Narges Montazer herself, gifted to her by a customer who became infatuated with the food. The painting is situated on top of a refrigerator next to the front door, looking down across the restaurant. It is easy to see her pride gleaming through the portrait and brings a warm smile across your face.

Feeling less like dining out and more like dinner with an old friend, between the incomparable food and the friendly atmosphere, it is easy to lose track of time just enjoying yourself.

By far the most wholesome restaurant in Lincoln, I highly recommend dining out at Daffodil Mediterranean Cuisine and Catering, and see for yourself how heartwarming it truly is.